Gujarat Govt Draws Line: Hindus must take prior approval for Religious Conversions in Buddhism, Jainism

This move comes in response to concerns raised regarding the interpretation of the Act, particularly in cases of conversions from Hinduism to Buddhism

Digital Desk: The Gujarat government has issued a significant circular asserting the distinct identity of Buddhism as a separate religion and mandating prior approval for conversions from Hinduism. 

The circular, released by the Home Department on April 8, clarifies that under the provisions of the Gujarat Freedom of Religion Act, 2003, conversions to Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism require prior approval from the district magistrate.

This move comes in response to concerns raised regarding the interpretation of the Act, particularly in cases of conversions from Hinduism to Buddhism. It was observed that some district magistrates were not adhering to the prescribed procedures, leading to confusion and potential legal disputes. The circular emphasises the need for a thorough understanding of the legal provisions and urges district magistrates to follow government instructions while processing conversion applications.

“…it has come to notice that in applications seeking permission for conversion from Hinduism to Buddhism, procedure as per rules are not being followed. Moreover, sometimes, representations are being received from applicants and autonomous bodies that for religious conversion from Hinduism to Buddhism, prior permission is not required,” the circular added, as quoted by the Indian Express.

Secretary of the Gujarat Buddhist Academy (GBA), Ramesh Banker, welcomed the circular, highlighting the clarity it brings regarding the status of Buddhism as a distinct faith. The GBA has been organizing conversion events, primarily among Dalits, and has consistently followed the prescribed procedures for obtaining prior permission from the district magistrate.

According to the circular, the conversion process requires detailed documentation, including filling out a prescribed form containing information about the individuals to be converted, the reasons for conversion, and details of the conversion event. This form must be submitted to the district magistrate one month before the scheduled conversion, undersigned by the religious head overseeing the ceremony.

The circular's issuance underscores the government's commitment to ensuring that religious conversions are conducted by the law and without ambiguity. It also reflects the acknowledgement of the diversity of faiths within the state and the need for proper regulatory measures to govern religious conversions.